Pet Health Insurance
June 19, 2007
In many homes, a dog or a cat is considered a member of the family. These animals are treated to the very best food, a soft and comfortable pet bed and in some cases expensive clothing. When a person feels this strongly about a pet they might want to consider purchasing pet health insurance. This not only provides them with good coverage should their animal become ill but it can also save a substantial amount of money.
Many people don’t factor in the cost of taking their dog or cat to the vet during an emergency. They are most concerned with having the illness or condition treated. If the health crisis took place during an evening or weekend, after regular office hours, the price of treatment can skyrocket. With pet health insurance in place the entire visit may be covered.
Most of us take our animal for a once a year check-up that includes their yearly inoculations. The price seems reasonable and we simply pay it. These annual visits are essential to maintaining the continued good health of your animal. If you find yourself visiting the vet more than once a year you should strongly consider pet health insurance.
Some breeds of dogs are susceptible to certain chronic medical conditions. These vary and may include ear infections, heart disease and cancer. If your dog does start to exhibit the symptoms of a serious, life-threatening disease such as cancer you can expect to pay a lot of money in medical expenses. Many pet health insurance plans will cover the cost of treatment of this and other serious conditions.
The payment plans vary depending on which insurance company you decide to go with. Some are much like traditional health insurance and will require your pet have a medical exam before the pet health insurance is provided. This alleviates any question as to whether or not the dog or cat had a pre-existing condition. As with health insurance for pet owners, pet health insurance companies will ask for medical records when you file a claim.
If your pet is a treasured and valued member of your family consider researching available insurance plans. You should also inquire with your veterinary’s office as to whether or not they will provide direct billing to your pet health insurance company or if you’ll have to pay up front and then be reimbursed. It’s also important to note that some companies do require that major expenses such as surgery be pre-authorized so you can be certain about how much coverage will be provided.